5 Tips for an Easier Dental Checkup

It’s finally that time of the year again—you’re due back at your dentist’s office for one of your biannual checkups! This is an important part of maintaining a happy and healthy smile, as your dentist has the knowledge and the means to take great care of your mouth. That said, maybe you aren’t feeling too confident about visiting the dentist and you’re wondering if there’s anything you can do to ensure the experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here are five tips from your dentist in West Hartford to help you out.

1. Brush Before Your Appointment

If you haven’t been practicing regular oral hygiene, don’t think that you can fool your dentist into thinking so by brushing and flossing directly before your appointment. That said, you can still brush your teeth prior to the visit. If you’ve recently eaten, this will reduce the amount of lingering food particles in your mouth, making issues like tartar buildup and gum inflammation easier for your dentist to spot.

2. Show Up on Time

Your dentist is a very busy person and has many other patients besides you to see; their time is valuable! Show them that you respect their time and efforts by showing up on time, or earlier if possible. This also ensures that your dentist will be able to spend an adequate amount of time taking care of your smile.

3. Do Not Exercise Beforehand

Showing up and sitting down in the dentist’s chair with damp, sweaty, and smelly clothes will create an unpleasant situation for you and your dentist, so wait until after your appointment to hit the gym. Exercise also increases the body’s blood flow, which can sometimes complicate what treatment you’re able to receive.

4. Ask Plenty of Questions

Your dentist is the expert on oral healthcare, so don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you have about your smile. There’s no reason to lie or hide anything—be as honest, informative, and curious as possible. You can also let your dentist know if you’re experiencing any dental-related anxiety and inquire about sedation dentistry.

5. Know Your Budget

Dental work can be stressful for some people, and the financial implications often don’t make things any easier! Consider figuring out your budget prior to your appointment—that’s one less thing to worry about at the end of your visit. If you have dental insurance, be mindful of what treatments are covered and what you’ll have to pay out of pocket.

Trips to visit the dentist should not be stressful; rather, they should be something that you feel confident about! Follow these tips to ensure that your next visit is a smooth experience that leaves you feeling great about the state of your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Ukti Phadnis has proudly served patients and families in the West Hartford area for several years! Dr. Phadnis received her dental doctorate from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and is a member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Connecticut State Dental Association. Her practice is pleased to offer many available services including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic options. To schedule a visit, feel free to reach out online or by phone: (860) 236-4249.